Get cozy with environmentally friendly cost savings this winter

Monday, October 26th 2009 9:54:58am

The cold weather is coming, whether we like it or not. You can take some of the bite out of winter by making your home more energy efficient.
1. Book an ecoENERGY assessment.

This will tell you what renovations you need to make in order to maximize your house's energy efficiency and save the most money. The audit will cost you around $350, but the provincial government will provide a grant of up to $150 regardless of any upgrades you do or don't make.

Remember: the recently passed Green Energy Act will soon make energy efficiency labeling mandatory, which means an energy assessment can give your home a competitive advantage in the real estate market.
To locate an energy advisor near you visit:http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/new-home-improvement/contact-advisors.cfm or for more information visit www.greensaver.org.
2. Insulate!

Your energy assessment will almost certainly suggest boosting your insulation. Insulating is one of the most important steps toward energy efficiency. Draft-proofing your building will also retain heat, reducing your utilities bill and your energy use. You'll also see significant savings in the summer time because your air conditioner won't have to work as hard. A well-sealed home keeps climate controlled air inside, where it belongs!

When you buy insulation, make sure to get as high an R value (the thermal rating) as possible and to insulate your attic and crawlspaces.
3. Change your furnace filter.

Your furnace operates all year round, circulating cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter. So keep it in good working condition - check the filter every six months and replace it if it's dirty. This will keep your furnace functioning as efficiently as possible.
4. Take advantage of government incentives.

For those who are considering renovations, an ecoENERGY assessment is a must. You can qualify for up to $10,000 in federal and provincial grants for upgrading your insulation, air conditioner, windows and more. The ecoENERGY grant can also be combined with the federal Home Renovation Tax Credit for further savings.

GreenSaver has re-vamped their website with a wealth of information on how to make your home more energy efficient. Learn about ecoENERGY assessments and how the process works, as well as GreenSaver's Intelligent Draft Proofing and ecoSMART Insulation Services. Visit www.greensaver.org or call (416) 203-3106 for details.

GreenSaver is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to environmental energy efficiency. They have pioneered Ontario residential energy conservation for 25 years with economically viable and environmentally friendly solutions to help individuals and organizations with their energy need (www.greensaver.org).